Case Studies
Thinking in the Classroom
To cultivate the valuable skill of problem solving with mathematics, students at Washington Colony participated in the “Thinking Classroom” techniques described in Peter Liljedahl's work on the subject. To implement one of the key components to Liljedahl’s techniques, a classroom set of vertical writing surfaces was purchased.
These surfaces are available for all teachers to use but are being piloted in this class this year. The picture shows the boards after they were used to solve a multistep problem that involved counting double digit equal groups, repeated subtraction as division, and the practical application of many of the valuable mathematical practices. With repeated exposure to these techniques, many third-grade students are engaged in the development of essential problem-solving skills.
Academic Year
2023-24